HC Deb 17 July 1919 vol 118 c574
14. Lieut. Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of efforts being made by the German Government to enter into trade relations with Soviet Russia; whether a German industrial and commercial mission has visited Soviet Russia; and what steps will be taken to safeguard the interests of British merchants and traders in Northern Soviet Russia and to enable them to compete in Russian markets?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Although I have no exact information, I believe it to be the case that the German Government are endeavouring to enter into trade relations with Soviet Russia, and that a German industrial and commercial mission has visited or is about to visit Soviet Russia. I am not in a position to make any statement in regard to the last part of the hon. and gallant Member's question.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Are we in a position to stop Germans trading in Soviet Russia in the same way as our merchants are stopped from trading in that most lucrative market?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

This question is under the immediate attention of the delegates in Paris.